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Developmental services merger welcome news for St. Stephen's residents, their families and staff -The move delivers stability and peace of mind to everyone, says President of St. Stephen's

OTTAWA, Feb. 2, 2016 /CNW/ - After years of trying to secure sustainable funding that keeps up with costs, St. Stephen's Residences of Ottawa will soon merge all operations with the Ottawa-Carleton Association for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (OCAPDD). According to the President of St. Stephen's, Louise Bergevin, the move was made to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programs.

"This is tremendous news for our residents and their families," she said. "With just 18 residents, we have long faced the pressures of rising costs while our budgets have remained frozen. That model is just not sustainable," she said. "Now, as part of a much larger organization, that burden will largely be lifted."

David Ferguson, the Executive Director of OCAPDD says this merger offers a high degree of stability for the residents.

"These kinds of discussions, where the quality of care and the well-being of some of the most vulnerable people in the community can be affected, can be very challenging," said Mr. Ferguson, "and there is no question both organizations faced some difficult issues. But it was clear from the start that everyone had the residents' best interests at heart. That's what remained paramount in this process and, in turn, made it a win for everyone."

Founded 60 years ago, OCAPDD is a non-profit agency that already operates several residences, day programs and community support services.

Unanimously supported by the Boards of both St. Stephen's and OCAPDD, and the Ministry of Community and Social Services, the merger becomes official in May.

Founded in 1956, the Ottawa-Carleton Association for Persons with Developmental Disabilities uses a holistic approach to support people with developmental disabilities.

St. Stephen's Residences of Ottawa is a non-profit charitable organization that provides residential and day supports to individuals with developmental and physical disabilities.